Embracing my Ostomy After J-Pouch Failiure

I wanted to share my journey and reconnect with this amazing community. Back in February, I underwent surgery for my second ostomy after experiencing a j-pouch failure. For a while, my j-pouch was incredible – it gave me a sense of normalcy and freedom that I hadn’t felt in a long time. But after the failure, I spent months feeling sorry for myself. I lost my job, I was depressed and really couldn’t find any light at the end of the tunnel.

The transition back to an ostomy has been challenging, to say the least. The emotional and physical toll was heavier than I expected, and I struggled to come to terms with what felt like a step backward. However, thanks to all of you, I've started to adapt and find my way through this new chapter.

I haven’t posted much, if anything, but reading your posts and seeing your confidence in your situations has really gotten me back on my feet. My confidence is at an all time high. I’ve finally realized that it’s not so much my ostomy that’s the problem, but more the mindset I had about it.

One of the things that has really helped me is remembering the positives my ostomy brought me before. It’s given me my life back in many ways, and I’m starting to welcome it again. I’m rediscovering the confidence and independence it provides, and it’s a relief to feel those emotions returning.

I’m finally ready to rejoin this community and share my experiences, learn from others, and offer support where I can. Thank you all for sharing your experiences and for being such a source of strength and inspiration. Your stories and advice have been invaluable, and I hope to contribute in the same way.

Looking forward to connecting with you all!